Dairy

• Every house needs milk, butter or margarine, yogurt, cheese and eggs. You can certainly modify these items based on your dietary preferences and restrictions, but these dairy products are commonly used in the preparation or completion of other food items. Low-fat milk is readily available in the dairy section, and If you're lactose intolerant, you can buy lactose-free soy milk products or almond milk. There are also many varieties of healthy low-fat yogurt and cheese. Eggs are a versatile and healthy dairy product that can be cooked with or without the yolk.

Animal-Based Proteins

• Animal-based proteins are varied enough to appeal to any dietary preference. These proteins include chicken, tuna, fish, beans, tofu, beef, sausage, pork, lamb, deli meats, canned beans, peanut butter and almond butter. Many of these proteins can be used in the preparation of main meals, and are good sources of not only protein, but omega-3 fatty acids and low-fat carbohydrates.

Breads, Cereals and Drinks

• Every pantry should be stocked with bread, whether it be of the whole-wheat variety, plain white or some other blend. In addition, breakfast cereals are a grocery staple, or based on preference, you can substitute oatmeal which can also be used for preparing a number of desserts. Drink staples are dependent on preference, but can include orange juice, fruit juice and bottled water.

Produce

• Fruits and vegetables should always be in ample supply in every home. You can stock up on fresh fruits such as apples, grapes and bananas, fresh vegetables such as lettuce, green beans, peas and carrots, and varieties of frozen vegetables and frozen fruits, depending on the personal tastes of your household. You can eat fruits as a healthy dessert or blend them as part of a smoothie. Vegetables can be consumed as a between-meal snack during the day, or used as a side-dish in your main meals.

Miscellaneous Extras

• Some other staples that should be in your pantry are pasta, rice, soup, flour, sugar, honey, maple syrup, salt, pepper, oil, baking powder, soy sauce, spices and condiments such as ketchup, mustard and mayonnaise, and snacks such as cookies, chips, crackers, nuts and pretzels.